Diaper Rash

A diaper rash is any rash that forms in your baby’s diaper area. In mild cases, the skin may be red and tender. A more severe diaper rash may have painful, open sores. Mild cases clear up within three to four days with home treatment. More severe cases may need medical treatment. Diaper rashes are the most common skin condition seen in young infants.

Types of diaper rash

Diaper rash types include:

• Irritant diaper rash: Irritant diaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, is the most common type of diaper rash. It occurs when your baby’s diaper area has too much moisture and/or prolonged contact with pee (urine) and poop (stool).
• Candida diaper rash: An overgrowth of a type of fungus called candida can cause yeast diaper rashes. Candida is found naturally in your baby’s digestive tract.
• Bacterial diaper rash: Rarely, certain types of bacteria, such as staph or strep, can cause diaper rash. Another name for this type is impetigo.
• Allergic reaction diaper rash: If your baby has sensitive skin, they may have an allergic reaction to ingredients in certain diapers, wipes and/or diaper creams.

How common is diaper rash?

Diaper rash is very common. More than half of babies between 4 and 15 months of age will have a diaper rash at least once in a two-month period.